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| Have we really been using this for 30 years? |
As I got out of the shower I saw that my husband changed out my towel so that he could do laundry. This is a lovely gesture. He has been doing laundry for 25 years and how sweet that he changed the towel for me. Then I realized that the towel hanging was his from before we were married thirty years ago. There are string hanging and it should be in a rag pile. But really, does it matter? No one sees this in our master bath. The only issue is, I should really cut the threads, as in my magic clumsiness I could choke myself with those long sturdy cotton threads. (reminder, get a scissors once I complete this post)
That towel got me reflecting about my sister in law Nannette and our lives. When that towel came into my life so did my husband's family. That crazy, large, love us or leave us group. You see they are army people and they moved quite a bit for 20 years. During that time, there were 7 children in 9 years and they really became each others best friends. Their fun and laughter is what attracted me to their family and what also sometimes drove or drives me a little nutty (and they know this). Oh, and let me say I am not perfect, I know my mouth drives them nuts too.
In February, my husbands youngest brother's wife was diagnosed with a very bad unpleasant terminal cancer. Since there are 5 boys in the family and these men are very similar in nature it has been said that there has been some sister in law bonding and a little bitching (can't say it any other way) over the years.
Nannette is a friend and family member and it is so hard for me to write this, but she will be leaving us soon. She is the first family member of our generation to be so ill and to leave. This horrible diagnoses is hitting all of so hard, as we watch her say her good-bye's and fight so strongly and beautifully. Her strength and understanding makes all of see that we must embrace every moment no matter how irritating or simple it may be. We really don't know our next step in life, we can't predict what comes next. We can only guess.
I will miss this beautiful, tell it like it is, kind lady. She has had many struggles in her life which has given her a texture that I love. Underneath her tell it like it is texture, she would do anything for anyone. She has hid her generosity and kindness from many, but not I. She hasn't fooled me and that is why I am so sad to lose my friend and sister in law. My generous, wine drinking buddy (until she got sick), traveling, practical, baking, cooking, loving friend will be missed so much.
So, to you my friend, I say good-bye with tears, love and hugs.
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| Nannette and I in April |
Until we meet again.
With love from your sister-in-law and retired FACS teacher,
Jane